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600hp Chevrolet Chevelle Turbo ‘TorqWagon’ Defies Physics

By Gillian Carmoodie Mar 15, 2019

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By Gillian Carmoodie Mar 15, 2019

Think a wagon can’t be as fast as it is practical and spacious? With 600hp and a twin-turbocharged V8 under the hood, this Chevrolet Chevelle Concours will make you think again…

When a classic wagon comes at you with automatic transmission built to accommodate 800hp, and a twin-supercharged V8, you can't help but gawp. Most usually seen wavering in the outside lane doing 45kmh, or taking a large family out to a picnic circa 1969, station wagons don’t usually appeal to those seeking street cred. Unless you are Marge Simpson. However, we may have found a rather staggering exception.

Blessed with an angular front-end, a pinched crease straight up the bonnet and a singular chrome bar that houses a neat arrangement of quad headlights, the 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle possessed styling that made other drivers sit up and notice.

Despite strong competition from rivals when new, the Chevelle boasted a menacing profile in the rear view mirror. It looked fast even when parked and was quickly billed ‘America’s most popular mid-size car.’

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Another part of its appeal was the sheer range of body types on offer – hardtop coupes, four-door sedans, convertibles and even a station wagon became available. Measuring in at a length of 208 inches, the 1969 edition of the Chevelle Wagon was offered in three trim levels – Nomad, Greenbrier and Concours – and came with a two-way tailgate that could either fold down or swing open. The Chevelle Wagon’s sharp looks, abundant trim options and day-to-day practicality offered an impressive package.

Fast-forward 50 years and that same alluring blend still resides in this Chevelle Concours Wagon, now for sale with Garage Kept Motors in Michigan. Except, before you even step inside, there’s something somewhat unique about this particular example.

As a Concours edition, the trim is top-level. Originally hailing from North Carolina, combined with a low odometer reading of 3700 miles, has helped the chassis and body panels dodge rust problems completely.

Re-sprayed in factory original Glacier Blue two years ago, further protecting the metal, means this Chevelle Wagon has kept its retro colouring. Now, distinctive Redline Lumtronix headlights, black Yenko-style TorqStorm graphics and American Racing Wheels add curb appeal to the already handsome lines. Unsurprisingly, they hint at this Chevelle’s recent history alongside what lies beneath.

Used as a promo vehicle for Wyoming-based supercharger manufacturer TorqStorm, this Chevelle proudly showed off the performance TorqStorm could install into a car, no matter how unlikely the profile. Power comes from a 350 SBC, enhanced to a whopping 600hp courtesy of a Twin TorqStorm Supercharger kit.

Other upgrades include a Holley Terminator EFI professionally tuned by Steve Morris, Holley Fuel Pump and Filters, MSD Ignition, 12-Bolt Rear End with Moser Axels, New Frostbite Radiator, New Old Air Products AC and Dual Exhaust.

Inside, the retro interior remains in excellent condition. Dark blue TMI bucket seats are sporting but comfortable while Dakota digital gauges and a Retrosound radio provide practical yet stylish features upon the dash.

All that’s left to take in is this Chevrolet’s extraordinary V8 burble, not usually heard when a wagon goes by. However, this Chevelle Wagon is all set to defy its very own definition. Get a closer look here.